Accurate Diagnosis Methods for Gastrointestinal and Pancreatic Disorders
Methods for diagnosing gastrointestinal, liver, gallbladder, and pancreatic diseases? 1. Dr. Yuan, what tests can provide the most accurate diagnosis for pancreatic diseases, especially chronic pancreatitis? Is MRI reliable? 2. What is a small bowel endoscope? Is a small bowel en...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello, 1. For chronic pancreatitis, the most sensitive test should be the assessment of exocrine function (such as the secretin stimulation test). However, due to the time-consuming nature of the test and the limited number of patients who require it, almost all hospitals do no...[Read More] Accurate Diagnosis Methods for Gastrointestinal and Pancreatic Disorders
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Seeking Answers for Unexplained Symptoms
Gastrointestinal discomfort? I am a 44-year-old male, and since July of last year, I have been experiencing the following symptoms: dull pain in the upper left abdomen (between the ribs and the navel, but pressing on it does not cause pain), bloating (gas is expelled both from th...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: I would like to know if you experience frequent bowel movements, have large stool volume, or if your stools are oily and float on the water's surface. If so, it may be necessary to consider issues related to the small intestine or pancreas, and further examination of ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Seeking Answers for Unexplained Symptoms
Is My Stomach Pain a Sign of Vomiting Blood? Understanding Ulcers
Is this vomiting blood? Hello, doctor. I am 24 years old, 165 cm tall, and weigh 86 kg. I have been experiencing stomach pain since I was 18 years old, but I initially found relief by taking stomach medications. However, in the past three years, the stomach pain has become more f...
Dr. Li Zhengqi Reply:
Dear Sir/Madam: Please seek immediate medical attention at a gastroenterology clinic or emergency room on an empty stomach. Be cautious of shock or fainting! Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Is My Stomach Pain a Sign of Vomiting Blood? Understanding Ulcers
Post-Gallbladder Surgery: Essential Health Checkups for Your Wellbeing
Health check-ups after gallstones? Hello Doctor, my father (54 years old) had his gallbladder removed last year due to gallstones. He sometimes experiences discomfort near his stomach. Although he has seen a doctor and occasionally takes gastrointestinal medication, it doesn'...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello: After gallbladder removal surgery, if there is discomfort in the upper abdomen, it is necessary to first check for the presence of stones in the bile duct or the possibility of peptic ulcers in the stomach and duodenum. Additionally, pancreatic diseases may also present as...[Read More] Post-Gallbladder Surgery: Essential Health Checkups for Your Wellbeing
Managing Moderate to Severe Liver Cirrhosis: A Caregiver's Guide
Moderate to severe liver cirrhosis, please help..? My mother went to the emergency room at the beginning of last month due to persistent diarrhea. She has been diagnosed with early-stage cirrhosis two to three years ago, and recently she seems to have frequent bloating and ascite...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello! 1. Based on the information in the letter, your mother has developed ascites, indicating that she has moderate to severe cirrhosis. In this condition, the current approach can only focus on symptom management and close monitoring. 2. The purpose of a liver biopsy is to ass...[Read More] Managing Moderate to Severe Liver Cirrhosis: A Caregiver's Guide
Herbal Remedies for Pain Relief: Unintended Stomach Issues Explored
Taking traditional Chinese medicine for pain relief may instead trigger stomach pain? My mother started taking traditional Chinese medicine to treat shoulder pain, but after two days, she developed stomach pain. She has seen three doctors and undergone two gastroscopies, all of w...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, helpless person: 1) Due to changing doctors for treatment, you may undergo repeated examinations. You can bring the gastroscopy report and medication list from the previous hospital to the second hospital to avoid unnecessary tests. 2) "Non-ulcer dyspepsia" can s...[Read More] Herbal Remedies for Pain Relief: Unintended Stomach Issues Explored
Understanding Your Digestive Issues: Gallbladder, Liver, and Stomach Concerns
I don't know what disease it is? Hello Doctor, I have been troubled by a persistent issue for a long time, and I kindly ask for your guidance. About two years ago, I started experiencing stomach pain and have been receiving treatment at a clinic, with symptoms fluctuating b...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello! 1. Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter is too relaxed, allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. There are many factors that can trigger this symptom, including high stress, obesity, and certain medications. A gastroscopy can ...[Read More] Understanding Your Digestive Issues: Gallbladder, Liver, and Stomach Concerns
Can Contrast Agents Replace Endoscopy for Stomach Issues?
If you are hesitant to undergo an endoscopy, is it possible to use a contrast agent for imaging instead? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing bloating for a long time, and sometimes I have stomach pain and acid reflux. However, I am afraid to undergo an endoscopy because I am ...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, to diagnose upper abdominal discomfort, we suspect gastric, duodenal, or even esophageal lesions. Gastroscopy is the most direct method to visualize mucosal lesions, and if necessary, a biopsy can be performed (for instance, if malignancy is suspected or to check for Helic...[Read More] Can Contrast Agents Replace Endoscopy for Stomach Issues?
Understanding Black Stool: Essential Tests and Examinations Needed
Melena Hello Dr. Chen: What examinations are usually needed if someone has black stools?
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, black stools that resemble tar and have a foul odor usually indicate upper gastrointestinal bleeding (from the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum). Generally, an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, also known as a gastroscopy, is required. If the amount is small and the stools ...[Read More] Understanding Black Stool: Essential Tests and Examinations Needed
Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Discomfort and occasional pain in the upper right abdomen..? Hello, I have recently started preparing for my graduate school entrance exam, and since a major exam two years ago, I've been experiencing occasional discomfort and pain in my upper right abdomen, mostly when lyin...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello, the most common cause of pain in the upper right abdomen is liver and gallbladder disorders. Other possibilities include duodenal ulcers, right kidney issues, and colon diseases. However, based on your description, it seems more like functional dyspepsia. I recommend that ...[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Managing Unexplained Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Home Care and Follow-Up Tips
What should be done in cases of gastrointestinal bleeding with an unknown cause? Hello, doctor. I have had ten episodes of tarry black stools within four days, accompanied by symptoms such as palpitations, rapid heartbeat, and dizziness. During the emergency visit, my hemoglobin ...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello, if both the gastroscopy and colonoscopy were performed thoroughly without any missed findings (some small lesions may cause significant bleeding but can sometimes be obscured by food or hidden in mucosal folds), then it is possible that the issue lies within the small inte...[Read More] Managing Unexplained Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Home Care and Follow-Up Tips
Understanding Bile Reflux: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Bile reflux I have pain and bloating under my right rib, upper abdominal bloating, and a feeling of nausea. I have already undergone gastroscopy and ultrasound examinations, which revealed severe bile reflux. The clinic doctor has prescribed Cospanon and Strocain. Recently, I oft...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, you are experiencing pain under the right rib and in the upper abdomen of unknown origin (gastroscopy and ultrasound show no significant findings, only bile reflux). Your physician may suspect a dysfunction of the duodenal papilla sphincter or abnormalities in the bile duc...[Read More] Understanding Bile Reflux: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Duodenal Deformity: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Duodenal deformity I had a second gastroscopy two days ago, and it was found that my duodenum is deformed (I had a duodenal ulcer two years ago). What treatment options are available? P.S. During my first gastroscopy two years ago, it was noted that the opening below my esophagus...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello, after the healing of a duodenal ulcer, scarring may occur, which can lead to deformity. However, if it does not cause duodenal obstruction, no specific treatment is necessary. It is important to maintain good habits, such as avoiding smoking, not taking painkillers, and ma...[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Deformity: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Your Stomach Pain: Questions About Gastrointestinal Health
I have a question I would like to ask the doctor? I would like to ask, three days ago I went to the emergency room due to stomach pain, which is located in the upper abdomen just below the chest. When I press on it, it feels strange but not very painful. I often feel nauseous, an...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Reply: Hello, 1. When experiencing gastrointestinal issues, it is generally advisable to consume light and easily digestible foods, avoiding sweets and fried or irritating foods. 2. If the acute pain lasts for only three days, there is a high possibility of acute gastrointesti...[Read More] Understanding Your Stomach Pain: Questions About Gastrointestinal Health
Do You Really Need Special Medication Before a Gastroscopy?
Two weeks prior to the gastroscopy, it is necessary to take special medications? I have visited three hospitals and clinics and have been diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, after taking medication for two weeks, I have not seen any improvement. The na...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, I have not heard of the requirement to take expensive medication for two weeks before undergoing an endoscopy. In some cases, patients may hesitate or be reluctant to have the procedure, but if the physician believes the symptoms are typical and suspects gastroesophageal r...[Read More] Do You Really Need Special Medication Before a Gastroscopy?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Blood in Stool and Abdominal Discomfort
Distressing gastrointestinal issues and bloody stools? Dear Doctor: Since July of last year, I have experienced blood in my stool approximately ten times. The blood appears as about 5 c.c. of bright red blood on top of my stool, which is typically sticky in consistency. Only once...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems more like rectal or anal bleeding, with the most common cause being hemorrhoids. However, other conditions such as colitis, tumors, or anal fissures cannot be ruled out. If you experience constipation at times, diarrhea at other times, w...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Blood in Stool and Abdominal Discomfort
Do I Need Another Endoscopy for My Recurring Stomach Ulcers?
Gastric ulcer Hello Doctor: I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy on February 22, and the results showed two ulcers (5mm and 6mm). This is the third occurrence of gastric ulcers in the past five years. I have been taking specialized medication for over two months, but m...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello, the main purpose of performing another gastroscopy is to confirm whether the ulcer has completely healed. Sometimes, it is difficult to distinguish between malignant tumors and benign ulcers in the stomach; even if the pathological biopsy shows benign characteristics, it d...[Read More] Do I Need Another Endoscopy for My Recurring Stomach Ulcers?
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Abdominal pain? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing abdominal pain for about two years now, specifically in the area just below the left rib cage, aligned with the lowest part of the central rib cage. Initially, the pain would occur after overeating, but now it happens every t...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, under normal circumstances, this area contains the stomach and intestines. If you continue to experience pain and have ruled out abdominal muscle pain, overexertion, or sports injuries, it is recommended that you visit a hospital for an abdominal ultrasound and gastroscopy...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Chronic Duodenal Ulcers and Persistent H. Pylori: Treatment Options
Duodenal ulcers and Helicobacter pylori? Dr. Chen: Hello, I have been suffering from a duodenal ulcer for two years. Last year, during an endoscopy, Helicobacter pylori was detected. I followed the doctor's advice and took medication for two weeks to treat the H. pylori infe...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, the antibiotic resistance of Helicobacter pylori is a troublesome issue. If the bacteria are still present after a second-line standard treatment (triple therapy for at least one week, confirmed by biopsy or breath tests), a quadruple therapy (adding another antibiotic or ...[Read More] Chronic Duodenal Ulcers and Persistent H. Pylori: Treatment Options
Understanding Excess Stomach Acid: Causes and Treatment Options
Excess stomach acid (Gastroesophageal reflux disease?) Dr. Chen: Hello, I have been experiencing excessive gastric acid and heartburn after meals since mid-August 2004. Currently, I am taking (1) Domperidone, (2) Famotidine, and (3) MGO (all before each meal), but I have not been...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Response: Hello, 1. I have not heard that these two medications affect the contraction of the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to gastroesophageal reflux. 2. There is indeed a difference; gastric acid secretion increases after meals, and it also tends to increase during sle...[Read More] Understanding Excess Stomach Acid: Causes and Treatment Options